Torino President Urbano Cairo weighs In on Del Piero’s potential FIGC candidacy

Torino President Urbano Cairo has shared his thoughts on the rumored candidacy of Alessandro Del Piero for the presidency of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). Speaking at a conference in Rome, Cairo expressed skepticism about the reality of Del Piero’s candidacy, suggesting it might be more of a media creation than a concrete possibility.

“Del Piero as a candidate for FIGC presidency? I’ve heard that there isn’t actually a candidacy; it seems more like a journalistic thing than anything else. I’ve seen something much less developed than what has been reported in some places,” Cairo stated.

The Torino chief also commented on the current FIGC President Gabriele Gravina, praising his leadership during challenging times. “If it [Del Piero’s candidacy] materializes? Let’s see if it happens. I’m seeing that Gravina seems intent on announcing his candidacy, and he has done well in certain moments. He was very good during the pandemic, where he managed to keep things on track,” Cairo remarked.

Cairo highlighted the contributions of football to Italian society and economy, expressing concern about the sport’s treatment despite its significance. “What’s missing at the moment is recognition that football provides important contributions in terms of taxation, employment, and morale, and yet it’s somewhat mistreated. That’s where things could be improved on his part,” he said, referring to the support that football seeks from political entities.